You can do several quick things before a plumber arrives to minimize the impact of a burst water main. Start by cleaning up puddles as quickly as possible; the longer you leave them, the more likely they will become moldy.
Secure the area if necessary. It will prevent further damage and safety hazards.
Call 911
If you see water gushing from the ground or notice water levels in your home increasing rapidly, it is crucial to call 911 immediately. The sooner you alert your local authorities, the faster they can dispatch a crew to assess and repair the damage. That is particularly true in crowded cities where water main breaks can occur for various reasons, such as corrosion, soil erosion, or tree roots.
Once an emergency crew has surveyed the area, they will shut off the main water line and may begin excavating to reach and fix the problem. If the break is located on a road or sidewalk, the city’s DEP (Department of Environmental Protection) will need to identify any underground utility lines that may be affected. This information will help ensure that the correct type of crew is sent to handle the job.
In the meantime, limiting tap water use as much as possible is a good idea. It can help mitigate the damage to your home while lowering your potential plumbing costs. Covering any outdoor faucets and disconnecting your hoses is also a good idea. It will help keep the water in your pipes from freezing during cold weather and prevent further bursts.
Turn Off the Water
More damage will occur if water still flows through the pipes when they burst. That is why turning off the water as soon as you notice a broken pipe is essential. Locate the main water valve (usually located near the water meter) and turn it off. It would help if you shut off any electrical power coming into contact with the water. It will help prevent the risk of electrocution.
While plumbing professionals like Bob Oates Sewer & Rooter are working on your water main break, using alternative water sources, such as bottled water, is a good idea until they have fixed the problem and cleaned up the area. It will reduce the time your home is exposed to contaminated water, which can cause several issues, including mold and mildew.
It would help to inform your neighbors about the broken water line and any water damage. It can help them take precautions, such as boiling water before using it, and it can also ensure they don’t experience any problems with their plumbing systems.
Contact a Plumber
A water main break can cause extensive damage to your property and prove to be an expensive repair. The good news is that you can limit the damage and costs by taking several steps immediately after a pipe burst.
First, start by cleaning up as much as you can. The faster you can remove water, the less damage it will do. Open windows and turn on fans to help dry out the area. You can also use towels or mops to absorb excess moisture.
Next, turn off the water supply at the main valve. It will limit how much new water enters the system as you wait for a plumber to arrive. Also, it can prevent further damage from happening to your home or business.
You should also avoid drinking tap water or using the dishwasher during a water main break. If a discolored or contaminated line causes the problem, your area may issue a boil water warning or alert.
It is a good idea to store the number of your city’s hotline in your phone if you need to call about a broken service line. It is essential if the line is made of lead or K copper; generally, these lines only last about 50 years.
Report the Damage
Water seepage from a burst pipe can damage sidewalks, roads, and buildings. Contact your local utility company immediately if water flows or gushes from the ground. A technician will assess the damage and use specialized equipment to pinpoint the break.
Homeowners have more control over the situation than they think. For instance, they can minimize water damage by turning off the principal and opening doors to allow airflow through the house. It will also help prevent the spread of mold and mildew.
Other indicators of a burst of water include strange colors in the home’s water, which may indicate contamination from the broken pipe. Reddish water typically means rust, while brownish water may be due to high manganese concentrations. In addition, unexplained high water bills can also be a sign of a burst pipe.
After assessing the situation, the local utility company will shut off the water and isolate the affected section. They will then excavate the damaged area, repair or replace it, and reconnect it to the existing water infrastructure. The repaired section is then flushed and tested to ensure water quality and pressure. After a few months, your local water utility company will inspect the repair and confirm that it is functioning as intended.